Date of Award
Summer 8-1-2024
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ed.D. in Teacher Leadership
Department
Bagwell College of Education - Department of Educational Leadership
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Dr. Nicholas Clegorne
Second Advisor
Dr. Chinasa Elue
Third Advisor
Dr. Albert Jimenez
Abstract
This dissertation explores the differing preparatory needs of teacher leaders and educational leaders through a phenomenographic approach, identifying unique and overlapping elements of these two leadership domains. Grounded in Adult Learning Theory, the study emphasizes self-directed learning and practical knowledge for professional development. Thematic findings reveal that Teacher Leadership Preparation Programs are primarily research-based on the practitioner’s perspective, offering insights grounded in classroom experience, while Educational Leadership Preparation Programs focus on developing supervisory skills for school and district leadership roles. This highlights the different focal points in leadership training, with teacher leadership prioritizing mentorship and educational leadership focusing on supervision.
The study suggests that an exchange of positionality between these disciplines could foster better collaboration and communication, enhancing leadership team effectiveness and improving educational outcomes. The research has the potential to inform graduate program curricula, support school district leadership pipelines, and guide educators in selecting suitable paths for professional growth. The findings contribute to developing more functional and interdependent leadership models that support high-functioning K-12 schools. Further research, policy, and practice recommendations include examining the long-term impact of integrated leadership training, developing policies for collaborative leadership models, and implementing practices for continuous professional development for both teacher and educational leaders.
Keywords: educational leadership, teacher leadership, phenomenography, professional development, distributed leadership, collaboration in leadership